These fox-faced little furballs are affectionately known as "Poms" or "Pom Poms." With their triangular-shaped ears, plumed tail, and can-do attitude, it's no wonder the Pomeranian is bringing joy and delight to many pet parents around the globe.
Think you might want to own one of these beautiful canines? Check out these 11 fun facts about our furry friend, the Pomeranian.
11 Fun Facts About the Pomeranian
1. Their Size - Not Always So Small
We know the Pomeranian as a small dog, but it didn’t start that way. Poms are actually in the Spitz family (closely related to Huskies, Malamutes, Akitas) and were once used to pull sleds and to herd reindeer.
Today, the Pom weighs in from 3 to 7 pounds and stands from 10 to 11 inches at the shoulder.
2. Personality - Big Dog Mentality in a Petite Package
Don’t be surprised if you’re out walking with your Pomeranian and he “verbally challenges” a big dog. This “can-do” attitude gives this cheeky little breed lots of spunk and the wherewithal to do well when it comes to learning tricks, competing in agility, flyball, and even tracking trials.
3. Famous Pom Pet Parents
Michelangelo (Italian painter) was one of the earliest pet parents of a Pom. It is said that his beloved fur baby watched him create the Sistine Chapel masterpieces while relaxing on a nearby silk pillow.
Teddy Roosevelt (26th President of the United States) also owned a Pomeranian he called “Gem.” He wrote about his beloved pooch in a letter to his son, Kermit.
4. Royal Roots
Pomeranians may have been beloved by some famous folk early on, but it wasn’t until Queen Victoria met an adorable Pom (named Marco) in Italy in 1888. that the breed really began to take off. This Royal fell in love with the lively breed and is even credited for taking the size standard from its original 20-pounds down to the compact-pooch it is today.
5. Pom-Cons
Poms are notorious barkers and will alert you to strangers at your door, in your yard, across the street, or anywhere within his perceived territory. This breed tends to overheat in the hot months, so be sure to watch him for signs of heatstroke. And because of its thick double coat, once or twice weekly grooming sessions are a must-do for the Pom parent.
6. Perfect Apartment Pets
Are you a senior or do you live in an apartment? The Pom may be the perfect pooch for you. Due to their small size, they don’t need a lot of exercise, and they also aren’t overly dependent on their pet parents. However, also due to their smaller stature, Poms are not recommended for families with small children.
7. Coats’ of Many Colors
Pomeranians have no shortage of coat colors. In fact, unlike most dog breeds (that only come in a handful of color varieties), the Pom has 23 different colors and color combos to choose from. These include solids like black, orange, white, and chocolate, to sable, beaver, and mixed colors.
Even stranger yet, when it comes to a Pom’s coat color, what you get as a puppy may not be the same color it retains into adulthood. For example, a cream-colored puppy Pom could change into a brown and white senior Pom.
8. Poms Come in "Blue?"
Blue Pomeranians are not classified as such because of their coat color, but rather the tone of their nose. This unique pooch as a dull black coat with a bluish-colored nose and sometimes, even blue eyes.
9. They Can Have Twins!
Pomeranian females can give birth to twins (a rarity among the canine species). Although the embryos are enclosed in their own sac, they do share one umbilical cord. The newborn pups can also be two different colors, so unless someone was to witness the birth of the twin-pups, they may dispute the validity of the claim.
10. Famous Poms
A Pomeranian named Boo is a social media mega-mutt. He has over 17 million “likes” on Facebook and 618,000 followers on Instagram. Want to check out this famous Pom? Here’s his hashtag - @buddyboowaggytails.
There is also a Pomeranian that held two World records. Jiff made his Guinness debut when he broke the record for the fastest 10-meter run on his hind legs (6.56 seconds) and the fastest five-meter front-leg dash (7.76 seconds). These records were set in 2014 and one (*front-paw” run) has since been broken.
11. Care of this Cutie
Breeders of the Pom recommend early socialization, so your dog will be a well-rounded adult. This includes exposing your puppy to different sights, sounds, and people.
Because the Pomeranian has a tendency to put on weight, it's recommended you feed your pooch a good quality kibble with whole protein, limited fillers, and added vitamins and minerals.
Although Poms do well learning new tricks, they do have short attention spans, so always use plenty of praise, and rewards, and keep your training sessions short.
Well cared for Pomeranians can live from 12 to 16 years.
You & Your Pomeranian
If you think a Pomeranian would make a great dog for you, be sure to connect with a reputable breeder or rescue group. Never adopt a Pom (or any dog) from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, as these animals tend to be sick, and/or genetically weak.
Once you have your Pom at home, be sure to give it the proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, and veterinary care it needs. A healthy Pom is a happy family pet!
Further reading and references:
- American Pomeranian Club
- Pomeranians (Barron's Dog Bibles) by Rugh D.V.M. Ph.D., Karla S.
- Pomeranians For Dummies by D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D
- PetPom's GIANT Book of Pomeranian Care by PetPom